Humbert Freres, Domaine
Summary
Domaine Humbert Frères is a fourth-generation family estate in Gevrey-Chambertin, where brothers Frédéric and Emmanuel cultivate 6 hectares of mature Pinot Noir vines across premier cru sites and a small Charmes-Chambertin grand cru parcel on limestone-clay soils. Their winemaking balances traditional Burgundian methods with selective modern adaptations, featuring partial destemming, native yeast fermentation in open-top wooden vats, and carefully calibrated oak aging to preserve the authentic expression of each vineyard site.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine Humbert Frères was established in 1970 when the Humbert family vineyards were divided between two brothers. Based in Gevrey-Chambertin, the domaine is currently managed by brothers Frédéric and Emmanuel Humbert, who represent the fourth generation of the family's winemaking tradition in Burgundy. The brothers assumed control of the estate from their father in 1989, gradually expanding their holdings and refining their approach to viticulture and winemaking.
The domaine maintains deep roots in Gevrey-Chambertin, with the Humbert family's connection to the region dating back to the early 20th century. Under the brothers' leadership, the estate has maintained a deliberately small production focus, allowing for meticulous attention to their vineyard parcels. The transition of responsibility to Frédéric and Emmanuel marked a period of thoughtful evolution at the domaine, with investments in both vineyard management and cellar equipment while preserving traditional Burgundian methods.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine Humbert Frères manages approximately 6 hectares of vineyards, primarily in Gevrey-Chambertin with additional holdings in Fixin. Their portfolio includes several premier cru parcels in Gevrey-Chambertin, including "Petite Chapelle," "Estournelles Saint-Jacques," and "La Perrière," along with a small but significant holding in the grand cru Charmes-Chambertin.
The vineyards feature the classic limestone-clay soils typical of the Côte de Nuits, with variations in the proportion of limestone, marl, and clay across different parcels. The vines average 40-50 years of age, with some older parcels exceeding 70 years. All vineyards are planted to Pinot Noir, reflecting the domaine's specialization in red Burgundy production.
The estate produces approximately 2,000 cases annually across their range, which includes village-level Gevrey-Chambertin, the aforementioned premier crus, and their grand cru Charmes-Chambertin. Each wine expresses the specific characteristics of its vineyard site, with the premier crus displaying the distinct personalities of their respective terroirs within the Gevrey-Chambertin appellation.
Philosophy & Practice
The Humbert brothers employ traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques with selective modern adaptations. Their approach begins in the vineyard with careful pruning and yield management to ensure optimal fruit concentration. Harvesting is performed by hand, with rigorous sorting both in the vineyard and at the winery.
In the cellar, the domaine practices partial destemming, with the percentage varying according to vintage conditions and the specific vineyard parcel. Fermentation occurs in open-top wooden vats with native yeasts, and the brothers employ a gentle extraction process through moderate punch-downs and pump-overs. New oak usage is measured and parcel-specific, typically ranging from 20-30% for village wines to 40-50% for premier and grand crus.
The Humberts age their wines for 15-18 months in French oak barrels before bottling without fining or filtration when conditions permit. This minimal-intervention philosophy extends throughout their production process, with a focus on allowing each vineyard's character to emerge clearly in the finished wines. The brothers maintain a consistent house style characterized by purity of fruit expression and structural integrity while respecting vintage variation.